How can you care for your child who has ADHD?
There are many things you can do at home to help your child who has ADHD.
You can help your child build social skills. Consider working with a specialist or taking classes to learn behavior management methods that you can use with your child. Behavior therapy and social skills training can help your child be less aggressive and impulsive, manage anger, and behave in a more socially acceptable way.
You also can help your child build self-esteem. You can do this by encouraging a sense of belonging, confidence in learning, and an awareness of your child's own contributions.
Model patience, persistence, and creative thinking. It can help your child learn skills for doing tasks at home and at school.
It's important to remember to take care of yourself too. Caring for your own physical and mental health is an important part of helping your child. And it will help you have the energy you need to take care of your child.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You feel your child cannot stop from hurting themself or someone else.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If your child talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
- Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
- Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child is having problems with behavior at school or with school work.
- Your child has problems making or keeping friends.
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